India
Meningococcal disease in India - Update
By World Health Organization
May 12, 2005, 17:12

Since 29 March 2005, 111 cases of meningococcal disease have been reported in Delhi till 10 am on 6 May 2005. To date 15 deaths have been reported. Majority of cases and all deaths have occurred in young adult population. The National Institute of Communicable Diseases (NICD) has demonstrated the presence of Neisseria meningitidis serogroup A in cerebrospinal fluid obtained from five cases. Most cases have been reported from Old Delhi.

The national authorities have established a coordination mechanism and an experts group to provide support in investigation, adaptation of guidelines and tools, response and to regularly review the disease situation as well as to provide advice on appropriate strategies. This group is comprised of MoHFW, Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD), New Delhi Municipal Committee (NDMC), Hospitals, the National Institute of Communicable Diseases (NICD), WHO and other relevant institutions. This meeting is chaired by the Director General of Health Services (DGHS), Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.

Surveillance for early detection of cases, case management and prevention of spread of the disease has been stepped up. A 24-hour control room is established in NICD. Technical guidelines are being distributed. A Newsletter (CD Alert) focusing on meningococcal disease is being made available to physicians. Media briefs are regularly released. Chemoprophylaxis of close contacts and vaccination of high-risk population groups is ongoing. Health professionals and workers are being oriented on prevention, appropriate case management and infection control practices.

WHO is working closely with the national authorities and providing technical support to the health authorities in the form of guidelines and tools, in monitoring of the situation, and epidemiological investigations. WHO is a member of the experts� group chaired by DGHS.

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